From offering the most spectacular views of the Ouirgane Valley, where red clay hills dot the landscape and time seems to have stopped, to the hip hangout in the heart of the Marrakech medina, Morocco is filled with hotels that will give you a feeling of a total fear of missing out. In our latest roundup, we’ve selected our favorite hotels from across Morocco – Fez, Tangier, Marrakech, and even the Sahara Desert.
L’Amandier
Located in the rural Ouirgane Valley, just 45 minutes from Marrakech, the stunning Atlas Mountain has views of the nearby barrage from its infinity pool, while the rooms benefit from breath-taking views of smaller peaks and red soil that covers the valley. The valley doesn’t see many tourists, so step off the hotel grounds and explore the simple life that exists throughout the valley.
Views from the infinity pool at L’Amandier | Photo: Anthony Craddock Photography
Views from the infinity pool at L’Amandier | Photo: Anthony Craddock Photography
Dining room at L’Amandier | Photo: Anthony Craddock Photography
Built entirely by hand by the country’s finest craftsmen, the elegance and grandeur of the Royal Mansour doesn’t stop at the mind-blowing reception hall. Step inside one of the private riads (there are no rooms at this hotel, only Moroccan riads), each with its own central courtyard surrounded by the living room, bar, and dining room. Up on the first floor are the spacious and luxurious bedrooms and bathrooms, while the rooftop terrace provides guests with a private swimming pool and views of Marrakech.
Don’t be surprised if you step inside Karawan Riad and you don’t want to leave. In fact, the suites in this riad may just be larger than most central New York or London apartments. Eclectic furnishings combined with modern design and state-of-the-art technology, each room features both an interior balcony with views overlooking the central courtyard and an exterior patio with views of the old city.
Meaning house of dreams, not only is the Dar Ahlam property lovely, but the views are dreamy. With a lodge located in the Skoura palm grove and a luxurious desert camp in the heart of Erg Chigaga in Morocco’s Sahara Desert, a stay here is pure luxury. As part of the nightly rates, guests are invited to explore the region – picnic in the palm groves, lunch under a tent lakeside or even in an olive grove. Then head out to the Sahara Desert where the sound of quietude is deafening, the vistas breath-taking, and the camp luxurious.
Head on up to the rooftop terrace at Dar Nour, where 360-degree views of the Strait of Gibraltor, the old city of Tangier and the 11th century ramparts are visible. Meals served under the stunningly blue skies as the wind blows over just cannot be beat. Don’t miss sunset cocktails starting from 6:30 p.m. The cozy salon spaces throughout respect the Moroccan tradition of hospitality – a place to relax and meet others in true Moroccan décor. And this place isn’t just for couples or romantic getaways, single rooms are available too!
A true architectural gem, Riad Fès may be the finest riad in the region, and its accreditation with Relais & Châteaux is an attest to this fine boutique hotel’s quality. Soaring ceilings and beautiful Moroccan craftsmanship are on display at every turn – carved stucco, cedarwork, intricate zellig tilework – and can make guests feel like they’ve stepped into a museum or palace. But the food here is some of the finest in Fes, making it possible to not want to leave the riad, but rather enjoy the beauty that exists all around.
Sprawling terraces with views of the Koutoubia and old city of Marrakech, a restaurant serving Ottolenghi-inspired lunches and dinners, and plunge pools throughout this colourful riad make it one of the top choices for the bohemian and creative set. And forget having to head out to the souks – general manager Willem Smit and designer Paul Rowland have curated the best of the markets along with their own leather and textile designs.
